Equine influenza has been confirmed in one horse at a training facility in Snohomish County, Washington, with ten additional horses exposed to the virus.
EDCC Health Watch, a program by Equine Network, uses information from the Equine Disease Communication Center (EDCC) to provide verified equine disease reports. The EDCC is a nonprofit organization supported by industry donations to offer accessible infectious disease information.
Understanding Equine Influenza
Equine influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness affecting horses, ponies, and other equids. The virus spreads through saliva and respiratory secretions, commonly through horse-to-horse contact, aerosol transmission, or contact with contaminated surfaces.
Symptoms of equine influenza include high fever, cough, depression, weakness, nasal discharge, and enlarged lymph nodes. Monitoring your horse’s health, especially at shows, can help detect early signs of infection. Vaccination is crucial in protecting your horse, with US Equestrian requiring proof of vaccination within six months of competitions. Consult your vet for the appropriate vaccination schedule.
Implementing strict biosecurity measures such as quarantining new arrivals, disinfecting equipment, and preventing close contact between horses can reduce the risk of infection and disease spread.